Business Details
20 Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts Academy in University Place
Tiger Taekwondo Academy was founded on the core principles of Taekwondo: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit. Since July 2006, we have served the University Place, Tacoma, and Lakewood communities with expert instruction in traditional and Olympic-style Taekwondo. Our programs cater to all ages, emphasizing physical fitness, mental discipline, and character development. Led by Master Jaeseok Choi (6th Dan Black Belt) and Master Russell Larson (5th Dan Black Belt), our team includes certified Black Belt assistants and handpicked Junior Leaders.As an affiliate of World Taekwondo (WT) and USA Taekwondo, we issue Kukkiwon-certified Black Belts recognized globally. Our after-school program supports local students, and our martial arts birthday parties offer unique, active celebrations. With decades of combined experience, we prioritize personalized instruction, balancing fun and learning while fostering confidence, respect, and resilience in every student.
Services
Kids Taekwondo
Teens Taekwondo
Adults Taekwondo
After School Program
Birthday Parties
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer expert instruction from 6th and 5th Dan Black Belt masters with decades of combined experience.
- Our curriculum balances traditional Taekwondo philosophy with Olympic-style techniques for all skill levels.
- We provide Kukkiwon-certified Black Belt programs recognized globally through World Taekwondo affiliation.
- Our after-school program supports local University Place School District students with structured enrichment.
- Positive reviews highlight our patient teaching style, inclusive environment, and life-changing student outcomes.
Associations and certifications
- World Taekwondo (WT)
- USA Taekwondo
- Kukkiwon
What people say
Wonderful place for children and adults
Excellent teachers with balanced approach
Kids learned confidence and respect
Highly recommend to all families
Motivating and challenging instructors
Services
Kids Taekwondo
Our Kids Taekwondo program builds discipline, focus, and self-confidence in children aged 5-12. Through structured classes, students learn traditional techniques, respect, and goal-setting while improving physical fitness. The curriculum combines fun activities with foundational martial arts skills, helping children develop mental resilience and social responsibility. Parents report improved behavior and academic focus in participants.
Teens Taekwondo
Teens Taekwondo classes develop physical strength, mental toughness, and self-defense skills for ages 13-18. Students master sparring, forms, and self-control while building confidence and stress-management abilities. The program emphasizes leadership development and peer support, creating a positive environment for teens to grow physically and emotionally through structured martial arts training.
Adults Taekwondo
Adults Taekwondo classes offer a comprehensive fitness solution combining physical exercise with mental discipline. Participants improve flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health while learning practical self-defense techniques. The program accommodates all fitness levels, focusing on gradual skill development and stress relief through traditional Taekwondo practices in a supportive community setting.
After School Program
Our After School Program provides structured martial arts training that combats childhood obesity while developing discipline and academic focus. Students engage in physical activity, character-building exercises, and goal-setting activities that promote mental growth. The curriculum aligns with school district requirements, offering parents a constructive alternative to unsupervised after-school time with proven benefits for behavior and academic performance.
Birthday Parties
Martial Arts Birthday Parties combine fun and fitness through interactive Taekwondo-themed activities. Children learn basic techniques, participate in group challenges, and enjoy a structured celebration that promotes physical activity over traditional party formats. The program eliminates cleanup concerns while providing an engaging, memorable experience that teaches teamwork and coordination in a safe, supervised environment.
People
Jaeseok Choi
Master Instructor
6th Dan Black Belt with over 20 years of teaching experience, Master Choi founded Tiger Taekwondo Academy in 2006. He specializes in traditional and Olympic-style Taekwondo instruction for all ages.
Russell Larson
Master Instructor
5th Dan Black Belt with expertise in competitive sparring and self-defense techniques. Master Larson co-founded the academy and focuses on teen and adult programs, emphasizing practical applications of Taekwondo principles.
Questions
What age groups do your Taekwondo classes accommodate?
We offer programs for children aged 5+, teens, and adults of all experience levels. Our curriculum adapts to different age groups while maintaining core Taekwondo principles.
Are your instructors certified in Taekwondo?
Yes, our lead instructors hold 6th and 5th Dan Black Belts with decades of combined experience. All staff maintain active certifications through World Taekwondo and Kukkiwon.
Do you offer trial classes for new students?
We provide introductory trial sessions to experience our teaching style. Contact us directly to schedule your first class and explore our programs.
What areas do you serve in the Tacoma region?
We primarily serve University Place, Tacoma, and Lakewood communities with flexible class schedules accommodating local residents and school district calendars.
Can martial arts improve my child's school performance?
Yes, our after-school program specifically addresses focus, discipline, and stress management. Parents report improved academic performance and classroom behavior in participating students.
Do you host martial arts-themed birthday parties?
We offer structured Taekwondo birthday parties with guided activities that teach basic techniques while providing active entertainment for children in a safe environment.
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